The Maryland State Board of Public Works has approved an $18,600 Program Open Space grant for Sykesville to develop a design plan for Burkett Park.

The funds will come from the Department of Natural Resources budget. Open space grants enable local communities to buy land and build facilities at park and recreational areas.

Teri Reyes, a member of the Sykesville Parks and Recreation Committee, said the town already has architect Chris Batton working on a design for the park. The land is surrounded by several developments, including Shannon Run, Lexington Run and Hawk Ridge Farm.

"The residents have given him their wish list and he'll draw up a plan and take it to the residents. Once they approve it, the Town Council has to approve it," Mrs. Reyes said.

The committee has scheduled a meeting with Mr. Batton and the residents at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the park to go over the architect's drawings.

Some of the things Mrs. Reyes said the committee is considering for the park include:

* Upgrading the existing ball field for informal neighborhood games, not league play.

* Putting in picnic tables and maybe a pavilion.

* Upgrading existing playground equipment, adding some new equipment and possibly putting in a play area for preschool children.